The CAF Champions League semifinal second leg between Al Ahly and Mamelodi Sundowns , at Cairo International Stadium promises a gripping battle as the two African giants compete for a spot in the final. After a tense 0-0 draw in Pretoria, where Sundowns dominated possession (74%) but lacked cutting edge, the tie hangs in the balance, with both teams needing a decisive performance to advance.
Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso, who lost the 2024 final to Al Ahly while managing Espérance, has instilled defensive discipline and structured buildup play. His side, unbeaten in eight matches against the Egyptians (4W, 4D), relies on high pressing and quick transitions, though their recent struggles in front of goal—zero shots on target in the first leg—pose a concern.
Al Ahly’s Marcel Koller, meanwhile, has adapted to injuries by shifting to a three-center-back system, emphasizing compact defending and counterattacks through wingbacks Mohamed Hany and Mostafa Mahmoud Al Aash.
Players to Watch
Emam Ashour (Al Ahly): The tournament’s joint-top scorer (5 goals) is pivotal in breaking Sundowns’ defense.
Themba Zwane (Sundowns): The veteran playmaker, recently back from injury, brings creativity and big-game experience.
Ronwen Williams (Sundowns): The goalkeeper’s heroics in the first leg kept Al Ahly at bay, and another stellar performance could tip the scales.
Mohamed El Shenawy (Al Ahly): The shot-stopper’s reliability anchors Al Ahly’s quest for a record-extending 13th title.
Road to the Semis
Al Ahly edged past Sudan’s Al Hilal 2-0 in the quarters, while Sundowns overcame Espérance de Tunis 1-0, showcasing their defensive resilience.
Both teams have kept clean sheets in three consecutive knockout matches, underscoring their tactical rigor.
For Al Ahly, victory would inch them closer to an unprecedented third consecutive Champions League title, cementing their continental dominance. Sundowns, meanwhile, aim to end an eight-year drought since their 2016 triumph and shed their “nearly men” tag in Africa. The winner faces Orlando Pirates or Pyramids FC in a final laden with prestige and a 2029 FIFA Club World Cup berth.
With pride, history, and continental glory on the line, this clash epitomizes African football’s finest—a blend of tactical nuance, individual brilliance, and unyielding ambition. Tune in to SuperSport for what promises to be a legendary encounter.
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